California is bicycle friendly…but is it safe?

On Behalf of | Jun 15, 2022 | Bicycle Accidents |

It’s not just vehicles that cyclists have to be worried about on the roads. Other cyclists and pedestrians can pose a threat to them as well.

A good example of this is a case involving a man who died after allegedly being pushed off his bicycle near a busy intersection in Los Angeles. The man fell, hit his head and passed away at the scene.

While that case hasn’t been solved, cases like this are not uncommon. There are always going to be hazards that cyclists have to watch out for, and they can come seemingly out of nowhere.

As a cyclist, your best option is to protect yourself

It’s unfair that the burden should be on a cyclist to stay safe, but it’s often the reality. One of the most basic things you can do is put on your helmet, so you can be sure that your head will be protected if you are hit or pushed.

California is considered to be a bicycle-friendly state

Right now, California is known as one of the most bicyclist-friendly states in the country, but there are still many cases of injuries and deaths. Cyclists have long been arguing that improvements would help reduce the risks they face, and it’s true. For instance, many believe that the green bike lanes have made it safer for cyclists to ride.

That being said, deaths are rising, and there aren’t always safe places for cyclists to ride. For example, there are seven parts of the Bay Area freeways where cyclists have to ride on the shoulder.

It’s not just your responsibility to stay safe when you ride

Realistically, it can’t just be your responsibility to stay safe. Other drivers and pedestrians need to understand that hitting or pushing you could result in a serious crash and terrible injuries. If you are pushed by someone, they could be held liable for any injuries you suffer, even if they were not driving or on a bike at that time. Similarly, if you are hit by a car, that driver may be liable for the expense of your care as well as other financial losses you suffer.